< Back Robin Greenblat Robin is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who has graduated with a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont, CA. She has a background in behavioral health, education, transitional youth, addiction and recovery services, and suicide prevention. She has worked with couples who have adult children struggling with ASD, ADHD, addiction, depression, and anxiety . She has experience working in diverse cultures and backgrounds in outpatient clinics, large healthcare systems, and private practices. She believes everyone has a voice and deserves to feel safe, respected, and heard. Robin encourages her clients to connect by offering a safe, nurturing environment, enabling clients to feel supported and valued. Life experience With 30 years of marriage and parenting four children. Robin's personal experience has given her a unique perspective to help her clients explore, reconnect, and rediscover their "sparkle." She understands the challenges of working, parenting, and finding time for self-care while strengthening personal and professional relationships. ​ Working with couples She works with couples, individuals, and family systems to develop improved communication, respect, and love. She helps couples and individuals through life transitions such as a new home, first child, loss of career, or loss of a loved one by exploring coping skills to reduce stressors and move towards healing. In addition, Robin works with couples to become more self-aware of their behavior and how it affects their loved ones. ​ Robin's approach to therapy Robin's approach is humanistic and creates a safe and non-judgmental environment for her clients to communicate openly. She has worked with families and children by guiding her clients towards rewarding and harmonious connections. She specializes in working with couples and individuals who want to improve their relationships, reduce stress, and make realistic goals with solution-focused therapy, positive communication, self-awareness, and self-care. Robin uses evidence-based therapeutic approaches by helping her clients to focus on building solutions by providing emotional and psychological safety to foster positive motivation and change. NEURODIVERSE RELATIONSHIPS The Basics: Neurodiverse couples have one partner that is neurotypical and one partner who has a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Neurodiverse couples can have different communication styles and perspectives, making intimate and loving relationships a challenge. However, neurodiverse couples can grow together by finding meaningful connections, focusing on their preferences, and learning to understand each other better. ​ Based on the goals of the Neurodiverse couple, Robin will help support stronger relationships and work on problem-solving skills. Couples will learn to focus on new ways to celebrate each other, reconnect, and interpret intention successfully. Through acceptance, education, and self-awareness, couples will practice relating to each other to create a more harmonious relationship. Common Symptoms: In adults, some common symptoms of ASD might look like: having difficulties interpreting facial expressions, interpreting body language, or understanding the social cues of others. Regulating emotions during conversations, reflecting emotions through vocal inflection, and engaging in repetitive behaviors might be challenging for someone with ASD. In addition, individuals with ASD may have specific and/or extreme interests and routines. The interests of individuals on the spectrum may seem obsessive, such as spending large amounts of time engaging in only certain activities under certain circumstances. Difference Turned into Strength: With these challenges, how can neurodiverse couples expand and enhance their relationship? Neurodiverse couples can use their different perspectives as strengths to shift away from conflict and understand each other’s thoughts and perspectives. Because everyone sees the world differently, a neurodiverse couple has a unique perspective. Each partner has a different way of thinking, different brain wiring, and experiences. While the neurodiverse couple may face challenges, having different ways of viewing situations and experiences can bring new and comprehensive perspectives. Neurodiverse couples can develop an awareness of their unique perspectives and accept their differences as a value rather than an annoyance . For example, each partner can see different ways of interacting or completing tasks. Working out tasks together can be an opportunity rather than a challenge for the neurodiverse couple to work together to become more tolerant of each other’s way of thinking. Having both shared and individual interests can encourage the neurodiverse couple’s autonomy and enhance the quality of life. Through acceptance and commitment, the neurodiverse couple can see each other through a new lens. Trust and Emotional Safety: Couples therapy can help the neurodiverse couple by finding how to deepen trust and understand how each partner views their experiences. By creating emotional safety and acceptance, couples therapy can help the neurodiverse couple to develop goals. Bringing importance to each partner and their intentions allows the neurodiverse couple to focus on their differences as a strength. Acceptance and commitment can help to increase feelings of compassion, connection, love, and happiness. Specialties Neurodiverse Counseling (ASD and ADHD) Couples and individual life transitions Discernment Counseling Pre-marital Counseling Depression and Anxiety Grief, loss, and shame Self-forgiveness Clients Couples, Elder Couples, Individuals Modalities Solution Focused Therapy (SFBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family System Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Humanistic Approach License Registered Associate, AMFT #114045 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. Specialty areas: Assessment, ADHD, Discernment, Neurodiverse Couples, Autism, Addiction, Cassandra, DBT Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Danielle Grossman Neurodiverse Couples C ounseling I love working with neurodiverse couples. Every couple I work with is unique and complex. The therapy process is creative, surprising and never boring. There is no one size fits all. How do you take two people who love each other, but whose minds, bodies, nervous systems and brains interpret the world and express themselves in very different ways, toward mutual understanding and connection? That is what we figure out together. “What we have here is a failure to communicate” - movie ‘Cool Hand Luke’ ​ Multifaceted Communication Breakdown By the time most neurodiverse couples seek counseling, patterns of defensiveness and disconnection have become entrenched. Even if some areas of the relationship are going well, others may be going really poorly. ​ Bids for connection have been unanswered, signs and signals that you are feeling unhappy or distressed have been missed, and attempts to discuss problems have gone sideways and caused despair, unkindness and avoidance. ​ You may find yourselves in a reinforcing negative loop of misunderstanding and hurt that becomes more and more convincing… ‘my partner doesn’t understand me, they don’t care about me, my needs don’t matter to them, they are selfish, they are controlling, they don’t like me, they want things from me I’m not capable of giving, they are going to leave me, this is not a healthy relationship, we are doomed.’ ​ Communication Reconstruction The good news is that just like patterns can form, patterns can also change. Even if both of you are still exactly who you are, the way you perceive each other and interact with each other can get much better. You can develop: More accurate narratives about each other. Increased understanding of what’s driving the other person’s behavior. More clarity about what each of you need. More emotional safety and connection. More sensory safety. Calmer and more cooperative conflict resolution. More respect for each other’s priorities. Better physical intimacy. More fun. More love! ​ Depth and Practicality We can go as deep as you want to go in the therapy. I have extensive training and clinical experience in trauma-focused work that allows each of you to identify and shift any of your own patterns that may be interfering with the health of your relationship. These patterns develop through a lifetime of being misunderstood or not having your needs met or respected. The patterns are held in your thoughts, behaviors, nervous system, mind and body. ​ I am also happy to keep things practical and help you with day to day stuff like division of labor, basic communication, finances/budgeting, parenting and trip planning. ​ Often clients choose to do a combination of deeper work and practical skill building. Your feedback about what’s helpful or not helpful guides the direction we take. ​ Life Stressors and Your Relationship Relationships do not take place in a bubble. My work with couples can include supporting you as a couple with a range of life stressors: Addiction (substance use and behavioral) Problems with food and eating Dealing with narcissistic or toxic people in your lives Deciding whether to have a child or more children Fertility issues Postpartum anxiety and depression Anxiety and depression associated with the menopause transition Chronic illness or medical problems Career transitions Aging parents Death of loved ones Children going through crises or developmental challenges Balancing time between athletics, special interests and relationships Managing difficult interpersonal aspects of your work environment ​ Can I see you individually? Can you see my partner individually? As part of the couples work, I do meet one on one with each person as needed or wanted. Because those sessions are part of the couples counseling framework, not everything you share will be kept confidential from your partner. Individual counseling, on the other hand, offers you full confidentiality. If you or your partner prefer to see me for individual counseling (I am not able to see both of you for individual counseling), I can offer you a referral to another team member for the couples counseling. ​ Individual Therapy for Neurodivergent Adults I love working one on one with clients who identify as ‘neuro-different’. Every client is beautifully unique and complex. I never offer a one size fits all. What you need, what you want, and what actually helps you is what the therapy is all about. ​ Why does life feel so hard for me sometimes? For neurodivergent people, there can be a wide gap between the things that come easily and magnificently and the things that are incredibly difficult, painful and overwhelming. ​ There can also be a gap between our intentions and motivations and how others perceive those intentions and motivations. ​ These gaps can cause us to experience rage, anxiety, shame, self-blame, an unstable self-concept, intense frustration, confusion, self-doubt, hopelessness, and despair. ​ They can also lead to patterns of alienation, not only from others, but from ourselves. ​ They can lead to burnout, depression and use of substances or behaviors that numb us from our pain. There also may be chronic pain or illness. ​ What can help me? We identify patterns in your mind, body, nervous system and brain, many of which may be adaptive responses to being misunderstood or not getting your needs met or respected throughout your lifetime. ​ You are supported to move toward: More compassionate and accurate narratives about yourself. Improved capacity to honor the needs of your body. Practical strategies for nervous system regulation. Communication and life skills that support you in your life goals and relationship goals. Establishing relationships with people who treat you respectfully and setting boundaries with those who do not. ​ We go deep and we stay practical. ​ We deal with whatever relationship or life stressors that you bring to the table. ​ (For information about my work with Neurotypical people in relationships with neurodivergent people, please see https://www.believing-cassandra.com ) Specialty areas: Addiction, Cassandra, Sex-Kink-Poly, Trans, Discernment, Parenting, Eating & Autism, LGBTQIA+, Internal Family Systems, Autism, Neurodiverse Couples, Blended, Affairs Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Julie Anderson Welcome. I’m glad you landed here. I know you’re wondering if maybe, just maybe, there’s help available to make life feel a little (or even a lot) easier. Did you search “autism”, “ASD,” “Spectrum”, “ADHD,” or something similar to find us? As the parent of neurodiverse 16-year-old boy/girl twins, let me tell you I know how that feels. I can assure you, there is hope. You have it within yourself to meet the challenges that you face. And there is help here, either with me or one of my colleagues. You’ve made that important first step – you’ve Googled and scrolled the web and found us: a practice that cares deeply about the unique difficulties that sometimes make you feel alone. You are not alone. ​ Neurodiversity ​ “I know of nobody who is purely autistic or purely neurotypical. Even God had some autistic moments, which is why the planets all spin” – Jerry Newport. Your Life is Not a Label ​ Diversity is the one thing we all have in common, and neurodiversity is part of what makes the mosaic of humanity so rich. If you used neurodiversity terms to find us, you already know that what makes us unique can drive attraction and connection, but can also contribute to misunderstanding and confusion. Our goal is NOT to help the neurodiverse “fit into” the neurotypical world. While a square peg can probably be forced into a round hole, that might only work by damaging or changing the peg. Instead, we seek to build upon the strengths and strategies that each person brings when creating attachments with those around them. We honor each person’s uniqueness by creating a respectful, nonjudgmental space that will allow a safe place for growth and connection to flourish, both inside and outside the therapeutic experience. Neurodiverse Couples Closeness and intimacy are integral to a healthy relationship. Life’s demands can take their toll on how a couple connects physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. Any couple may start to feel disconnected in some or all of these areas leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. For individuals who differ in their neurodiversity, this difference may require more focused attention to build and maintain intimacy. Showing up for each other means honoring each partner’s strengths and needs. In therapy, we will identify goals and patterns of interaction and work collaboratively to create new communication patterns that grow from a place of open-heartedness and connection. Neurodivergent Parenting For a moment imagine what it is like for a child to have one adult after another bending down and speaking to them with impatience, frustration, and annoyance in their faces and voices. Imagine how overwhelming this is for a child who already experiences heightened sensory and emotional sensitivity. Bridging the generation gap can be challenging for parents and children whose brains work in similar ways, it can be even more tricky when it feels like you are speaking different languages through the filter of neurodiversity. We are a team supporting your needs and concerns as a parent while honoring your child’s singular experience. OTHER AREAS Infertility, ART, and Post-partum depression ​ Nothing is more natural than having a child, except when it isn’t. Julie understands when the journey to parenthood does not go as anticipated. From fertility treatments to childbirth to post-partum depression, things have a way of defying best-laid plans. The process of becoming parents and the feelings around parenthood can be complicated and have a profound impact on your intimate relationships. Sandwich Generation ​ You are in the Sandwich Generation if you are caring for both children and aging parents. Squeezed in the middle, are you juggling the delicate and demanding tasks of caring for everyone but yourself? Is it any surprise your relationship is also suffering? Julie is particularly versed in supporting clients who have become caregivers for parents or spouses experiencing dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Co-parenting ​ Sharing a parenting relationship is among the most enduring experiences in life. Even after the dissolution of a marriage, connection through children remains. When one co-parent is neurodivergent there may be additional communication and executive function challenges that further complicate this delicate relationship. Creatives and Highly Sensitive Individuals ​ Before making this career transition Julie worked for decades in the arts. In her current practice, Julie specializes in working with writers, actors, musicians, and other individuals who identify as “highly sensitive.” About Julie I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Santa Monica, California. Born and raised in the Midwest, I lived in New York City for 20 years. Before becoming a therapist, I was a freelance writer and worked in film, theatre, and nonprofit arts and education. I am the parent of a couple of 16-year old neurodiverse comedians. Long interested in people who “see differently,” I wrote a children’s book about color blindness, Erik the Red Sees Green . The first person in my family to go to college, I received a B.A. from Johns Hopkins University, then New York University, leaving a Ph.D. program at NYU to start working in the arts. I graduated summa cum laude with an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide and am currently enrolled in a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) program at California Southern University concentrating on counseling and neurodiversity. Other areas of focus (in addition to Neurodiversity): ​ Affair Recovery Ambiguous Grief Caregiver Support Co-Parenting Couples Counseling Creative Support Divorce Recovery Infertility Kink-Aware LGBTQIA+ Allied Life Transitions Parent Coaching Poly Friendly Sex Therapy​ Sex Positive Modalities: Coaching Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Existential Therapy Experiential Therapy Internal Family Systems (IFS) Narrative Therapy Polyvagal Theory Psychodynamic Trauma-Informed Therapy​ Clients Couples Individuals Families ​ License Registered Associate, MFTA #136580 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. ​ Specialty areas: Blended, Cassandra, Sex-Kink-Poly, Discernment, Parenting Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, Trans, Buddist - Spiritual, Neurodiverse Couples, Affairs, Autism, Parenting Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Amanda Buckman ​ Amanda is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a mother of 4, plus 2 children from a blended partnership. She is currently working towards the completion of her doctoral degree in counseling education and supervision. Amanda specializes in working with couples and individuals who want to strengthen their lives and relationships through positive communication, conflict management, and improvement in intimacy as well as self-care, so they are able to continue to care for others. Using a non-judgmental, strength-based approach, Amanda guides couples in finding solutions to problems, while also maintaining a safe and supportive space where couples can communicate safely and openly about the fears that paralyze them, such as fear of loss, disappointment, rejection, and loss of self. Neurodiverse Couples Communication is important in every relationship, and it can be particularly challenging for a neurodiverse couple. Amanda believes that it is vital to identify solid communication strategies between partners, using specific techniques for handling relationship troubles, whether perpetual or solvable. These techniques encourage the understanding that emotions are important, there is no absolute reality, only two subjective ones, acceptance is crucial, and a development of fondness and admiration within the relationship. Amanda encourages couples to celebrate the small steps towards a larger goal and helps keep focus on what the couple can do to set themselves up to thrive. Parenting Neurodiverse Children Amanda has personal experience as a mother of a neurodivergent 13 year old, working through the white waters of concern for her child’s behavior and development, receiving the diagnosis of neurodiversity, and wondering what it means to parent a child who is neurodiverse. Parenting neurodivergent children can be exponentially intense. Amanda teaches parents positive parenting skills that encourage the use of “Why?” to address the child’s behavior, focusing on an understanding of the purpose that behavior serves the child and what they are trying to tell you. Allowing the behavior to inform what needs to be put into place ahead of time to help the child manage the particular challenge, and also ensuring that consequences are related to the behavior/issue as a last resort to addressing behavior. Amanda encourages parents to catch their child’s positive behaviors whenever possible and to name specifically what they see so as to encourage the positive behavior to reoccur. Other areas of focus (in addition to Neurodiversity): Addiction Affair Recovery Major Life Transition Support, co-parenting, blended families, separation/divorce Parent Coaching Sex Therapy​ Clients: couples and families Modalities: Coaching Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Gottman Method Internal Family Systems (IFS) Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) Strength-Based Structural Family Therapy ​ License: Registered Associate, MFTA #126006 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. ​ Specialty areas: Blended, Affairs, Addiction, Discernment, Parenting, Parenting Neurodiversity, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA+, Sex-Kink-Poly, Sex, Neurodiverse Couples, Christian, Cassandra, Intimate Partner Violence, Teens Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Anne Hogland You've landed here looking for support, needing more care and attention for yourself and for your significant relationship. Perhaps you or your partner are also neurodivergent, and you're wanting neuro-informed support that understands the complexities of that experience and how that would impact a relationship. Connection is not a constant state in any relationship. We are always moving in and out of it. If disconnection lasts for too long, there is greater likelihood for misunderstandings and ways of relating that can further that separateness. Our work together helps you to reconnect more easily and helps you know, understand, and love each other better. By providing you warmth, compassion, and acceptance, I offer a space to feel seen and heard and can provide you direction on the roadmap back to one another. I take an integrative approach, accounting for the different aspects of who you both are, of your family, and the systems that you are embedded in. Know that there is help here for you and that, by working together, we can navigate the path back to greater, more effective communication, greater appreciation and understanding of yourself and your partner, and greater overall satisfaction in your relationship. I look forward to walking with you on this path towards reconnection. My Story I grew up in the Midwest and relocated to California in my early adulthood. I was always drawn to creative endeavors and pursuing my degree in fine art seemed like a natural choice. However, after working as a graphic designer for many years I felt that something was lacking. My heart wasn’t in it, as much as it was in the healing and spiritual pursuits I was doing outside of my work life. As a deep-feeling person, I knew that I wanted to contribute something, to have a positive impact. I enjoyed most helping others, especially in navigating their significant relationships and life's challenges. After experiencing the positive benefits of my own work in therap y, I returned to school to study counseling psychology. I loved the work and felt that I had finally found where I “fit.” Upon graduation from my program, I took a break from working as a therapist to start a family, and was thrust into the real "work" of a marriage, parenting, and managing a home as well as helping aging parents with significant health issues . During this time our oldest child also received an autism diagnosis . I know from experience how that can deeply impact a marriage and the needs of a family both at home and out in the world. I saw clearly that navigating support for resources was an extremely challenging and time-consuming process, and there was so little available to help parents process these changes and challenges. As well, little is offered to keep parents feeling hopeful for the future and appreciative of their unique child. I want to support individuals and couples, especially parents, around the topic of neurodivergence, as they find their way into new rhythms and greater joys in their relationships and families, as well as helping them build relationship skills and resilience to be more supported in life's harder times. Life Experience I have an autistic child who is exploring their gender and identity I have a sibling diagnosed with ADHD and neurodivergence exists on both sides of our extended families I have many autistic traits I have a background working in a creative field for over 20 years and in working in higher education and non-profit organizations Specialties and Certifications Neurodiverse Couples Specialist Neurodiverse Parenting Specialist Associate Marriage and Family Therapist ​Education Masters in Integral Counseling Psychology Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication License & Certifications ​Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapist, AMFT # 110323 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc . Specialty areas: Parenting Neurodiversity, Parenting, Autism, Neurodiverse Couples, ADHD Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Stephen Robertson Stephen is a creative, dedicated, and passionate therapist with a background in behavioral health, education, and social services. He has wide-ranging experience working with people in all stages of life, helping them to become happier and healthier as individuals, in couples, and in families. He integrates art therapy to enable couples to connect emotionally and intimately. Strength, resiliency, and connection are essential elements of a lasting, satisfying, and harmonious relationship. Stephen believes that these are the building blocks for healing, forgiveness, and positive progress. He provides a safe, nurturing, and judgement-free space where couples can explore resolutions to a current problem, prevent an exacerbation of problems, or simply provide support for a couple experiencing a period of transition or increased stress. Stephen facilitates the discovery of fresh energy to create a healthy emotional connection. His approach is nurturing , thus enabling clients to engage with the healing power of their own personal symbols. This entails fostering self-agency to empower them to leverage their positive qualities in order to become more free, powerful, happy, and healthy. ​ In addition to strength-based work, his therapeutic approach is trauma-informed in order to support clients in their process of trauma integration and healing. He provides treatment that activates the body, mind, and brain with expressive methods that are engaging and empowering. ​ Stephen has worked with people of diverse culture and ethnicity. He brings the ability to relate to clients with authentic knowledge and sensitivity to culture and ethnicity. In particular, he has experience with interracial couples. ​ NEURODIVERSE RELATIONSHIPS: ​ Expertise Stephen offers expertise in supporting your unique neurodiverse relationship. He empathizes with the often-challenging themes that give rise to relationship stress: the dearth of emotional reciprocity and the challenge of maintaining meaningful balance with your partner and others in your life. Stephen provides a safe space enable you to share your feelings and expectations. He believes the willingness to improve communication and to be open to be open to managing expectations and finding solutions becomes the foundation of increasing trust in your relationship. ​ Compassion and Insight Stephen presents a compassionate and understanding approach to neurodiverse couples’ therapy. This enables you both to gain fresh understanding and perspective. He helps nurture awareness in each partner of their own individual patterns, from these insights he invites adjustments to enable both partners to get more out of their relationship. The neurotypical partner gains insight that the neurodiverse retreat into safe behaviors and routine, is not a rejection but is a consequence of the Defense Mode. The defense mode being one hallmark coping strategy of the neurodiverse individual. Stephen supports the neurotypical partner process feelings of abandonment, frustration, and grief. Catharsis and forgiveness in both partners enable openness to positive feelings and increased self-esteem. ​ Making Sense of Neurodiversity It is important that you both make sense of your neurodivergent partner’s behaviors. You may have pondered why anxiety can be a problem for your neurodiverse partner. Stephen shows you how anxiety can lead to impulsivity, melt-downs, rage, and withdrawal, all negatively impacting the relationship. More importantly he supports you both to strategize, problem-solve and better connect to make progress on the challenges to your special relationship. ​ Fresh Perspectives By offering a fresh perspective, Stephen helps you both positively revaluate your relationship. He offers structure and effective tools to use, this enables reengagement and motivation for your partnership. Such understanding enables collaboration to use your combined strengths and resilience. Stephen believes that neurodiverse people have numerous assets such as loyalty, honesty, intelligence, strong values, the ability to work hard, generosity, and humor. He is passionate in using these qualities to bring you closer together. ​ Communication Stephen supports effective communication and step-by-step actions to grow the loving connection you both deserve. This sensitive, nurturing process, enables neurodiverse individuals and their partners to feel supported in dealing with their communication challenges. The discontent in neurodiverse partnerships that comes from the lack of initiation of connection will be assuaged by enabling you both to safely verbalize your needs. Stephen’s will work with you on a relationship schedule. Your relationship schedule will ensure quality time is set aside to meet both your needs. Other areas of focus (in addition to Neurodiversity):​ Children Couples’ relationships Separation and Divorce Parent and child conflicts Depression and Anxiety Trauma and Stress Grief and loss and shame Forgiveness and Self-forgiveness Modalities: Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy, Jungian Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy ​ Clients: Couples and Families, Adults, Adolescents, Children ​ License: Registered Associate, MFTA #126705 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. Specialty areas: Autism, Neurodiverse Couples Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Soy Kim Hello, it’s nice to meet you! My name is Soy and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who earned my master’s in Clinical Psychology and studied Business during my undergraduate years. ​ I believe that therapy is a sacred space where one comes to learn to re-embrace their most authentic selves as well as their partner’s . These parts of us that were once labeled as cute, charming, or safe, have now become nuisances, being written off as “too sensitive,” “needy,” or “cold,” “disconnected.” Together, it is my hope to create a place where you can re-examine the strengths in yourselves and the other, remember what was alluring in the first place, and how might you renegotiate your relationship with new discoveries. My approach is balanced: Gentle yet firm, non-shaming and affirming, without enabling , and it is in my nature to support those who may feel stuck, unseen or unheard, to find their voice and bridge the connection where there is disconnect. ​ Neurodiverse Couples: Sometimes, it isn’t a mismatch in our personalities or values that impacts couples in challenging ways—sometimes, it’s our biology, and how does one change their biology?​ I offer neurodiverse couples the space, tools, and skills to both celebrate the relationship and also examine areas where there may be some challenges , learning how to respond to these challenges in a more connected way. Another part of my role is to help facilitate conversations that may challenge you to slow down to not just hear what your partner is saying, but to also take in their intention. Our world is so fast-paced, sometimes we forget to take a step back not just to listen to the words, but to hear what’s being said. ​ Another important piece to this is education and awareness: We will take the time to learn more about yourselves and how you relate to your partner, as well as understand the biology of your AS partner. The goal here is to help gain a better understanding about oneself and the other , so that when opportunities show up to connect, you can do so in a more attuned way. ​ I honor the relationship you have already built so far and look forward to seeing how else I can help nurture its growth. “When we reveal ourselves to our partner and find that this brings healing rather than harm, we make an important discovery—that intimate relationship can provide a sanctuary from the world of facades, a sacred space where we can be ourselves, as we are…This kind of unmasking—speaking our truth, sharing our inner struggles, and revealing our raw edges—is sacred activity, which allows two souls to meet and touch more deeply.” -John Welwood ​ Specialties (in addition to Neurodiversity): • Couples struggling with trauma • Communication and emotional intimacy • Parenting after child sexual abuse • Addiction & codependency • Affair recovery Clients: Couples, adults (young, middle, older), adolescents Modalities: Trauma-informed, Attachment-Based, Humanistic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Harm-Reduction, Narrative Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relational Therapy, Psychodynamic ​ Languages: Fluent in English and Korean License: Registered Marriage & Family Therapist Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. Specialty areas: Discernment, Intimate Partner Violence, Neurodiverse Couples Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Monica Attia Neurodiverse Couples: What is often missing from traditional couples counseling is the acknowledgment of diversity in neurotype, culture, career, and family dynamics. Drawing on my own personal experiences, which involve navigating the complexities of cultural adaptation, major career transitions, and my own neurodiverse marriage, I am dedicated to supporting couples in similar situations. Our approach is rooted in acknowledging and celebrating these diversities, while working collaboratively with couples to create a harmony and synergy unique to them. In our sessions, we delve into the intersectionality of neurodiversity, culture, career, and family influences, with the goal of fostering a holistic approach to your relationship dynamic. Together, we explore the intricate interplay of these factors, creating a space where understanding, resilience, and celebration of differences form the foundation for lasting connections. To put it simply: It’s impossible to truly know someone without acknowledging what makes them different. And as the old adage goes... to know someone is to love someone. This is a therapy experience that not only acknowledges the diverse facets of your relationship, but also embraces them as catalysts for growth and harmony. My Roots: I am a first generation Egyptian-American lawyer turned therapist with ADHD and autism. My younger self struggled with the pressure to conform both culturally and neurotypically. I believed that I would only have a healthy life and happy relationships if I forced myself to be “normal.” I later learned that celebratory self-acceptance opens the door to meaningful connections. I now take pride in my neurodivergence. So much so, that if given the option, I wouldn’t switch brains. Even if it would have definitely made my childhood and adolescence easier. Why? Because my neurodiversity connects me to a community of resilient and amazing folks. It’s now my life’s mission as a therapist to support and celebrate other neurodiverse individuals and couples . This world wasn’t designed with our needs in mind, but this world is made better because we’re in it. You deserve to feel seen and understood, too. ​ NEURO-INCLUSIVE NOURISHMENT ​ The Paradox of Food Food is paradoxical. It’s necessary for survival, yet can feel like torture. It’s deeply personal, yet everyone around you has an opinion. It’s supposedly simple, and yet it’s often complicated. Food can simultaneously feel fun and connecting, and yet dangerous and isolating.For the neurodiverse mind, this paradox is understandably frustrating and overwhelming. Eating “properly” felt like a full time job that I never had enough energy for thanks to sensory issues, executive dysfunction, and the shame for not conforming to the “societal norm.” Societal Expectations Because, of course, the media, family, friends, peers and literal strangers, have a lot to say about our food and our bodies. It’s incessant, aggravating, contradicting, and completely unrealistic. It doesn’t take into account your specific history, trauma, medical needs, culture, neurotype, or preferences! So let’s opt out of those societal expectations, and figure out what you need together. Without judgment, without coercion, and with lots of empathy, because I’ve lived the struggle too. A nourished body and a peaceful mind are possible. ​ To read more about Neuro-inclusive Nourishment, click here. ​ Certificates Board registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #141520 (supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , clinical director) Certified in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Certified in Brainspotting (for trauma therapy) She Rocks the Spectrum Therapist Neuro-inclusive Nourishment Specialist Education Masters of Science, Marriage and Family Therapy - San Diego State University Post-Baccalaureate Psychological Science Program - University of California, Irvine Juris Doctor - Georgetown University Law Center Bachelor of Arts, Political Science - University of California, Los Angeles ​ Clients Neurodiverse women Autistic, ADHD, Highly Sensitive People Neurodiverse clients with eating struggles Neurodiverse couples Modalities In my therapy practice, I use and am trained in the following client-centered modalities as they align with my belief in the significance of emotions, personal narratives, and the mind-body connection in healing and personal growth: Emotionally Focused Therapy Brainspotting (for trauma therapy) Internal Family Systems Narrative Therapy License Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #139592 (supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , clinical director) Specialty areas: Sex-Kink-Poly, Trans, Assessment, ADHD, Autism, Eating & Autism, Teens, Sex, Brainspotting, Neurodiverse Couples, Internal Family Systems, LGBTQIA+ Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Adela Stone Adela is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who graduated with an MA in Clinical Counseling. She also has a Master’s degree in Journalism which she received in Europe where she is from. She speaks three languages and understands the need to tailor therapy based on cultural backgrounds. Her experience as an immigrant helps Adela to empathize with her client’s life challenges, and her early parental and spousal losses enable her to connect with others in mourning. It has also boosted her resilience and given her a worldview atypical for her age. She has gone through a big marital challenge herself during her current second marriage and has undergone couples therapy. She is now a part of a blended family which enables her to understand some of the tricky dynamics of step parenting. NEURODIVERSE COUPLES: The most common complaint of a neurotypical person in partnership with a neurodiverse person is the partner's rigidity. Often, the individuals in this type of relationship suffered attachment injuries. Making Sense of Differences I can help you shed light on some of your partner's behaviors and make sense of the hurt, misunderstanding and resentment you may feel. It is normal to go through grieving: for the past of your relationship that wasn't neurotypical as well as for the future of your union that will be always be a bit different. Your brains aren't wired the same way. Neuroscience research show us that People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may appear stuck or have shutdowns or meltdowns because they are often in a state of overwhelm in which someone with Asperger's is scared, frustrated, or angry, as well as withdrawn. This state is often referred to as Defense Mode. Defense Mode I can help you understand the Defense Mode that a neurodivergent person often employs so that you can help yourself or your partner from shutting down so often. Perhaps you know what the signs of Defense Mode are by now. The neurodivergent partner isn't trying to be mean. In fact, they are doing the best they can with the emotional resources they have, AND they can do better: for the sake of both of you as human beings worthy of love and acceptance, and for the sake of the future of your relationship. There are ways to help yourself or your loved one come out of Defense Mode. The two fundamental ones center around decompression time and trust building which is comprised of four necessary pillars that we can work on putting together. Your partner isn't being willful. Their definition of an issue you are dealing with just isn't the same as yours. Listening to Understand Talking in order to connect is a basic human need but we need to have a common shared understanding first. The message about what this shared understanding actually is can get blurred or corrupted. If you have a common language you can define shared values and shared expectations. Remember that forcing a conversation will lead nowhere. We can work on how to ensure an important conversation does take place though. I'm sure you know listening is important but are you actually using efficient and respectful listening with your partner? If you are, both of you will experience less frustration. Listen to understand, not to form a defensive retort in your mind as they speak. Understand what it is like to be them. I get that it isn't fair to you, the neurotypical partner, it feels as though you are doing all the work. I agree, it isn't fair but you are in a partnership and are here so I assume you do want to try. I am in the business of hope and positivity and would like to offer you some. I have seen neurodiverse marriages succeed. Other areas of focus (in addition to Neurodiversity): Healthy Grieving as a Couple Couples going through life transitions Co-parenting Kink-aware couples therapy Couples with mismatched sexual desires LGBTQIA+ ally Differences in sexual taste and style Guidance through nonmonogamy/polyamory Blended families/step families Languages: Fluent in Czech, French and English Clients: Couples, Families, Young Adults Modalities: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based Therapy, Gestalt, Positive Psychology, Existential Therapy, Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy. License: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT #143787, APCC #9260 Specialty areas: Sex, Sex-Kink-Poly, Neurodiverse Couples, Cassandra, DBT, Intimate Partner Violence, Blended Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Joseph Kaiser My Story Born and raised in the Redwoods of Northern California, I spent two decades in the advertising industry as a creative director, art director, and copywriter collaborating on regional, national and global campaigns. As a creative director nothing was more thrilling then collaborating with other creatives. Nurturing diverse perspectives and personalities to create high impact campaigns was a source of great personal and professional inspiration. Later I founded two small businesses; one in tech accessories and another manufacturing active toys developed for neurodiverse, neurotypical, and other children with special needs. I am a US Patent holder and was honored with a Silver Clio Award 2002, Bronze Clio 2002 and published in Graphis Design Annual 2004 and American Graphic Design 2003. My goal is to empower growth through the use of dynamic evidence-based theories and therapeutic rapport. Though I love my work with individuals, I am particularly passionate about couples work and how it can lead to individual well being and familial harmony. For better or worse, our earliest programming teaches us what we think marriage 'should' be. The truth is, marriage is what we make of it. We are the creators and, although painful at times, it can also inspire and empower. I am a firm believer that people heal and grow in connection to others. ​ Main Areas of Focus Neurodiverse Couples Some couples have yet to realize they are neurodiverse. When they finally do, a diagnosis can feel like a relief after years of pain and contention. One common complaint from a partner may be that they are being "gaslighted” by the neurodiverse partner; accused of being irrational and not having their experience or feelings validated. The neurodiverse partner can feel overwhelmed and misunderstood. Common differences in communication are logical vs. emotional, concrete vs. abstract, absolute vs. relative, and avoidant vs. insistent. The first step is to help couples identify just how differences in their wiring affect their interaction cycles. Next is to break blame and shame patterns and find acceptance in differences through a structured step by step process that helps you rediscover love and acceptance. ​ Couples De-escalation and healthy communication are a crucial place to start but only one dimension of couples work. Uncovering deeper unspoken truths and patterns by creating an environment of trust and acceptance is at the core of the healing process. Exploring and validating each partner's unique experience is essential to connecting. I help clients work past blame and shame. Major life changes like the loss of a job, the arrival of a child, or grief and loss, can bring about a shift in dynamics. My goal is to help couples grow together instead of apart while retaining their own identity. I provide a structured approach to couples therapy using elements of EFT, Gottman Method, CBT, Attachment Theory, Relational Life Therapy, Internal Family Systems and more. ​ Affair Recovery Unfortunately, affairs transcend race, culture, sexuality, age, and socio-economic background. Whether it be emotional or sexual, infidelity is traumatic. The betrayed partner can develop depression, anxiety, and symptoms similar to PTSD while the unfaithful partner can be plagued with guilt. My first step is crisis management to stabilize your lives so the therapeutic work can begin. Once the immediate crisis has settled, the real work begins. If partners are willing, compassionate, and persistent, it can be an opportunity for tremendous growth. Affairs may be a reflection of long-standing wounds or struggles that pre-dated the marriage as well as patterns that developed during the relationship. Understanding why the affair occurred is critical to getting on a productive path to affair recovery. Using a step-by-step process, I will compassionately steer couples through this difficult minefield. ​ Parenting And Co-Parenting It is in the best interest of their children for parents to move from an adversarial relationship to a cooperative and collaborative one. After 15 years of parenting and co-parenting of his own, I leverage my training and personal experience to help couples develop co-parenting plans and maintain a safe, secure, nurturing environment for their children to thrive. When done successfully, co-parenting counseling can improve the child’s confidence and self-esteem. Individuals As a compassionate professional, I am committed to helping individuals find healing, growth, and relationship transformation. This begins with building rapport which I believe is the wellspring of effective psychotherapy. I work with challenges such as depression, stress or anxiety, self-esteem, and career transition. Whether it is the cycle of life, health crisis, a move, a loss, relational struggles or change of circumstances, we can become overwhelmed. All too often there is a confluence of things that happen all at once. We thought we could handle it all but our body and psyche say no. I have a compassionate, accepting, curious approach that melds joining the client with various therapeutic methodologies and evidence-based practices. Other Areas of Focus Neurodiverse Couples Therapy & Coaching Trauma informed therapy Depression & Anxiety Treatment Life transitions High stress jobs Discernment Counseling Trauma-informed Therapy Pre-marital Counseling Depression and Anxiety Grief, loss, and shame Clients Couples of all ages Couples of all ethnic backgrounds Adult Individuals. Men, Women High achievers Modalities Internal Family Systems (IFS) Emotionally Focuses Therapy (EFT) Narrative Therapy Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Person-Centered Therapy Gottman Method Family Systems Positive Psychology Attachment-based Culturally Sensitive Existential Family Systems Humanistic Mindfulness Motivational License Registered AMFT #133330 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. Specialty areas: Addiction, Discernment, Affairs, Sex, Assessment, LGBTQIA+, Neurodiverse Couples, Autism, ADHD, Blended, Parenting Neurodiversity, Parenting, Internal Family Systems, Eating & Autism, ND at Work Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Bassy Lee My Story ​ I grew up in a family and culture that does not encourage seeking help from others because it is perceived as a sign of weakness. However, seeking help at the right time is actually a strength because pain and mistakes can be avoided. After college, I worked as an occupational therapist and found myself falling in love in the helping profession. I am frequently drawn to couples work in my social circle. While exploring my second career path, I want to formalize my experience in couples counseling to help people outside my social circle. I want to share not only my knowledge and skill but also my experience in the ups and downs of marriage and life. ​ My Strength Being married for more than 20 years and a mother of one young adult child and two teenagers, I understand the unhealthy cycle in marriage as well as the emotional struggles in parenting. I am experienced in working with neurodiverse couples, cross-cultural marriages, couples with depression, addiction, anger issues, and affair recovery. Helping families move to healthier relationships is what I profoundly care. ​ NEURODIVERSE COUPLES: Intimate relationship is challenging for neurodiverse couples who have very different perspectives, communication styles, and personalities than each other. My previous work as an occupational therapist enhances my empathy and professional understanding towards couples facing neurodiversity issues. ​ Neurology affects how a person thinks, feels, speaks, and believes. It also make an impact on an intimate relationship when it affects every conversation a couple has, how they make decisions together, and how to raise kids together. ​ During couple relationship coaching, I take these factors into account to help improve communication and intimacy in the neurodiverse relationship. ​ Diagnosis is not necessary but it is sometimes helpful for deeper understanding leading to more appropriate therapeutic approach. These online assessments are optional for you: ​ Autism Spectrum Quotient (33-50 = possible AS) Empathy Quotient (< 30 = possible AS) Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14 ) (>13 = possible AS) Other areas of focus (in addition to Neurodiversity): cross-cultural couples relationships parent-child conflicts spiritual formation in couples ​ Languages: Fluent in English and Cantonese Clients: couples and families, adults, adolescents, healthcare workers, church or community leaders Modalities: Emotion Focused Therapy, Person-Centered, Neuro-biology, Family Systems, Trauma-informed, Somatic therapy, integrative (holistic) psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral. ​ License: Registered Associate, MFTA #122672 Supervised by Claudio Silva, LMFT #82582 Specialty areas: Christian, Parenting, Sex, Neurodiverse Couples Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Blaze Lazarony My Story I’m Barbara Lazarony, but everyone calls me Blaze. For 20 years, I worked in the fast-paced world of retail, where, as a Senior Director, I led and mentored executives and managed $2.5 billion in sales in 42 locations across the United States. I was uber-successful with a sassy job title and a large office overlooking Market Street in San Francisco. The young girl born on a farm in rural Ohio thought she had finally made it! I was living as an overstressed workaholic. The signs that something was wrong with my health kept getting louder and louder until I couldn’t ignore them any longer; in 2003, I was told I had thyroid cancer , and I decided to resign from my job. Those were dark times for me; in addition to cancer, I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It was a journey, and I sought support from modern and holistic medicine, plus a fantastic therapist and coach. The truth was, I had no idea who I was beyond my job title. ​ Sadly, no one in the medical profession back then told me I had both an acquired and genetic form of neurodiversity; it took me a while to discover that my brain was wired differently. I don’t have Autism or ADHD; however, I know what it feels like to be different from everyone else! ​ CANCER WAS THE SPARK I NEEDED TO IGNITE THE FIRE THAT CHANGED MY LIFE. –BLAZE LAZARONY That fire led me to become an Advanced Certified Integral Coach and start my own business. I loved being a coach for eighteen years but realized I could not help people achieve long-lasting success, fulfillment, and healing because I didn’t have the skills, training, and knowledge to get to the root of issues holding them back. To support people in the way I wanted to, I decided to go to graduate school at the age of fifty-three and earn my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. ​ Since finishing my degree, I have navigated different types of cancer twice and supported my life partner through his own cancer journey. I also have a history of autoimmune disease diagnosis; therefore, I am someone who understands the deep well of grief that needs to be acknowledged and validated in therapy. ​ Main Areas of Focus Neurodiverse Couples I am committed to helping couples like you who are neurodiverse. I’ve learned how to love and be loved by my husband; we’ve been together since we were seniors in high school forty years ago. We have experienced grief, loss, the death of loved ones, financial issues, health challenges, and even being separated for two years, yet we continue to love each other. I offer my clients both the lived experience and the clinical training to navigate the challenges of neurodiverse relationships because I’m in one myself. So, if you’re trying to navigate relationship challenges, I can help. For example, many couples come to therapy with communication difficulties; perhaps they can’t understand one another or are having trouble communicating their needs to their partner, leading to misunderstandings and even conflict. Clients also express having problems managing their levels of anxiety or impulsivity, where one person constantly feels stressed or overwhelmed while the other is more relaxed. Finding a balance between giving someone space to feel their feelings and not trying to “fix” them is a topic we address in therapy. I help both partners in a neurodiverse relationship learn to understand each other better by using specific strategies for communication. Communicating openly with your partner about what you need and being willing to negotiate is essential. Let’s face it: all of us get triggered, and some strategies can help manage these triggers, especially in neurodiverse relationships. Key strategies include learning about each other's unique triggers and creating ways to manage overstimulation. If you are in a neurodiverse relationship and struggling, please reach out to me for help. You deserve to create a thriving relationship full of patience, love, and understanding. ​ Sensory Processing Difficulties Supporting clients with sensory processing disorders, such as Alexithymia, HSP (Highly Sensitive People), and Interoception difficulties, requires a comprehensive and tailored approach. As a professional, I thrive in supporting clients who have challenges processing and interpreting sensory information, leading to anxiety, discomfort, and feelings of being overwhelmed. Therefore, creating a safe and calm environment that minimizes sensory triggers and provides clients with the tools needed to regulate their sensory systems is essential. This may include sensory integration therapy, mindfulness techniques, and self-awareness exercises. As a practitioner, I strive to make this process enjoyable by incorporating fun activities like sensory play, relaxation exercises, and positive reinforcement. By supporting my clients with sensory processing disorders, I can help them develop the skills needed to thrive daily. ​ Adult Autism & ADHD Assessments I provide neurodiversity-affirmative assessments and therapeutic services to empower individuals to reach their full potential. I utilize a comprehensive process, including questionnaires, discussions, observations, and evaluations for adults to assess for Autism and ADHD. Including the in-depth MIDAS-2 and SRS-2 for Autism and the CAARS and Brown EF/A scales for ADHD. Together, we will explore and identify opportunities for your personal growth, acknowledging your unique Autistic and ADHD-filled gifts so that you can lead a life of success and fulfillment. In addition, I understand the special difficulties that neurodivergent individuals face daily. I strive to help my clients confront these challenges head-on, ultimately finding ways to communicate better, socialize easily, and feel more comfortable in the world. I am excited to be your advocate, mentor, and therapist on this journey; if I could have had help when I received my neurodiverse diagnosis, it would have made a world of difference. I would be honored to join you on your path toward hope and confidence! Specialties and Certifications Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor Neurodiverse Couples Specialist Autism & ADHD Assessment Specialist Advanced Certified Trauma Specialist Advanced Certified Integral Coach Brainspotting Certified-Level I & II ​ Life Experience Has personal experience in multiple neurodiverse relationships Worked with thousands of people as a Coach, Manager, Leader, and Mentor Former careers as an Executive and Business Coach, Executive Director in a non-profit, and Senior Director in retail-coaching people, as well as managing staffing operations and finances ​ Education Bachelor of Science in Home Economics, Fashion Merchandising, The Ohio State University Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Sofia University, also earned a Certificate in Creative Expression ​ More about Barbara (Blaze) Diagnosed as Neurodiverse 20 years ago Offers Neurodiverse Couples Retreats Married for 35 years to her high school sweetheart, together for 40 years Cancer Survivor-3 times! Guest Lecturer on Leadership at California State University Northridge Co-Author of five books-including two about business and two of poetry Links to Blog Posts Barbara (Blaze) Lazarony's Blog Posts Specialty areas: Assessment, Sex, Sex-Kink-Poly, Discernment, Cancer & Autism, Neurodiverse Couples, Autism, Cassandra, Couples Retreat, Brainspotting Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Tony Traback Welcome! My name is Tony. I have been meeting with couples for over 20 years and been married for 17. I would be honored to help you. NEURODIVERSE COUPLES: At the outset, I want to recognize that relationships are not easy. In spite of the inherent beauty in the variety of life, Neurodiversity adds another level of challenge, especially if there is a lack of understanding. Communication can break down. Unhealthy patterns can destroy trust. Even happy life transitions can upset the good patterns we work hard to form. While relationships can be a profound source of companionship, during rough patches, we can feel unseen, unheard, and lonely; even our partner’s presence can become a source of irritation. Even been there? The good news is that you do not need to walk this road by yourself. There is hope. The truth is no one steps into a relationship or marriage with all the tools one needs to thrive. Especially a neurodiverse relationship!!! Most of us need help along the way. And this is where I come in. With me, you will grow both personally and relationally. You will live more fully out of your authentic self, accepting of yourself and your partner's differences. You will cultivate habits to help you flourish and identify barriers getting in the way. You will learn to say “yes” to the things that bring you life. Relationally, you will improve your communication and build intimacy so fights become conversations which lead to knowing one another more deeply. You will identify the destructive dances in your relationship and learn new ways of being together—so that you laugh and play together again. Don’t assume your current experience is all there is. ​ Education & Relevant Experience I grew up in a divorced home and a blended family. My parents and stepparents did not know how to communicate well. There was infidelity and lots of conflict. If I am honest, it was a mess. My parents needed help but never got it. And I think that early experience shaped much of why I have such a passion for working with couples. I attended Claremont McKenna College, studying politics, philosophy, and economics. After college, I joined the Peace Corps and served in Kenya, and then worked for four years with youth and their families as a counselor in Santa Clara County. I later earned a Doctorate in Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary and a Masters in Psychology from California Southern University. I have spent the last twenty years trying to help individuals, couples, and families flourish mentally, emotionally, and relationally. I love working with couples and look forward to meeting you. Other areas of focus (in addition to Neurodiversity):​ Trauma Premarital Counseling Cultural Issues Couples Counseling Family Conflict Separation Therapy Life Transitions Grief Modalities Solution Focused Therapy Existential Therapy Emotion Focused Therapy Person Centered Clients Couples Individuals Families License Registered AMFT #134113 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. ​ Specialty areas: Christian, Addiction, Affairs, Neurodiverse Couples Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Leila Pirnia Neurodiverse Couples Insurmountable Problems? Being in a relationship where one, or both, partners has a neurodiversity can present unique challenges that may seem insurmountable at times . Perhaps you and your partner have been struggling to connect, and you're not sure how to move forward. You may feel like you're speaking different languages, that your partner doesn't understand you, or that you can't find common ground. ​ I've worked with many couples in similar situations, and I've seen firsthand the toll it can take on both partners and the relationship. One partner may feel like they're always walking on eggshells, trying to avoid triggering their partner's sensitivities, while the other partner may feel like they're constantly being criticized or misunderstood. Communication may break down, leaving both partners feeling frustrated, alone, and disconnected. ​ Perspective Taking to Bridge the Gap With the right support and guidance, it's possible to create a safe and loving partnership that enables each of you to thrive and grow. As a neurodiverse couples’ therapist, my goal is to help you both understand each other's perspectives and needs , and to find ways to bridge the gap between you . I'll work with you to identify areas of strength in your relationship, as well as areas that need improvement. We'll explore strategies to build empathy, trust, and communication skills, and we'll develop tools to manage conflict and build resilience. ​ I approach therapy with a focus on collaboration, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. I believe that each person and relationship is unique, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and feelings without fear of criticism or rejection. I'll work with you to tailor our sessions to your specific needs and goals, and we'll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you both. ​ If you're struggling in your relationship and feel like you're at a crossroads, I encourage you to reach out for support. Together, we can work towards building a stronger, more connected partnership that brings out the best in each of you. ​ Parenting Neurodiverse Children, including ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, OCD, Giftedness, and Twice Exceptional (2e) As a parent, you seek insightful solutions for your unique child rather than labels and generalizations. You may have long recognized that your child differs from other children. Despite seeking answers in parenting books and receiving advice from friends and family members, you have yet to find lasting solutions to your child's behavior. In fact, some of the advice may have even caused setbacks or worked as temporary band-aids, at best. You may be in awe of your child's unique talents in certain areas, but at the same time, perplexed by their inability to complete certain basic tasks. You may observe uneven patterns in your child's development, leaving you uncertain about how to set appropriate expectations. To Push or Back off? You may wonder how much to push your child to their full potential and when that pushing may be jeopardizing their mental health or pushing them farther away. You may notice that teachers, friends, and family unfairly judge your child, leading to a negative impact on their self-esteem and sense of worth. It's possible that you have already enrolled your child in various programs or interventions, but you are still searching for a more comprehensive understanding of how to best support your child and your family. You may be hesitant to seek help, out of concern that a professional may not be able to perceive your child's uniqueness and individuality in the same way that you do. Toll on Relationships Meanwhile, this struggle with meeting your child’s needs can be taking a toll on your relationship with your partner and other children. You’ve been struggling to meet everyone else’s need in the family at the expense of your own and you recognize you need a better strategy. “Beneath every behavior there is a feeling. And beneath every feeling there is a need. And when we meet that need rather than focus on the behavior, we begin to deal with the cause, not the symptom. ” My Approach When working with families, I strive to integrate a personalized, emotion-focused approach with evidence-based research and best practices . This approach allows us to create a meaningful connection and work together towards positive change. I create a comprehensive and tailored plan of action that takes into account your family’s and your child's unique strengths and challenges, without solely relying on labels and diagnoses. I work with parents every step of the way and help them discover the “why” beneath their child’s behavior and guide them toward positive changes. I offer specific guidance to help parents engage with their children in ways that tap into their intrinsic motivation for growth and success. My approach is founded upon evidence-based neuropsychology, curiosity, thoroughness, and clinical integrity, to help your child and the family reach their full potential. In our work together, you will come away with a nuanced and individualized roadmap that is tailored to your child's unique needs, allowing you to make current and future decisions that are suited to their individuality. I am a firm believer that therapy has the power to unlock the world-changing potential of the neurodiverse mind, and I am committed to helping your child achieve their full potential. ​ Read more about our care for Twice-Exceptional Children . Specialties and Certifications Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor Neurodiverse Parenting Specialist Neurodiverse Couples Specialist Kids and Teens Therapist Cassandra Syndrome Specialist ADHD, OCD, and Anxiety Specialist ​ Life Experience Associate Psychotherapist at Neurodiverse Couples Counseling Center and Autism Parenting Therapy Center. Training with Dr. Harry Moto, Clinical Director and Founder. Clinical training - The Center for Professional Counseling of Los Angeles. Trained from a psychodynamic, depth-oriented clinical theoretical orientation, integrating alternative modalities as needed such as family systems theory, attachment theory, and CBT/DBT/ACT. Clinical training - Outreach Concern. Work with children, teens, and families as a school-based mental health therapist at multiple school sites. Handle a diverse caseload of students with behavioral, social, emotional, and academic needs. Incorporate a strengths-based orientation to foster academic growth and help students reach their personal potential, both inside and outside the classroom. Graduate Research Associate working alongside Dr. Shelly Harrell in her Culture, Wisdom, and Resilience Lab. My primary focus was the development of a unique application designed specifically for mental health therapists. This innovative tool enables therapists to incorporate quotes from thought leaders into their therapy practices, promoting greater wisdom, insight, and resilience among their clients. Prior President, CFO, COO, and Founder of various tech companies, startups, and non-profit organizations. Learnings from the corporate world helped shape my passion for understanding people’s behaviors, motivations, and drives. These experiences have equipped me with a unique perspective and skill set that I bring to my work as a mental health therapist. ​ Education Bachelor of Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis on Marriage & Family Therapy, Pepperdine University Other Areas of Focus High Achievers Tech Executives, Corporate Executives Midlife and Life Transitions First Generation, Immigrants and Children of Immigrants Trilingual: Farsi (Persian), Spanish, and English Clients Individuals Couples Families Teens/Kids Modalities Psychodynamic/depth-oriented psychology EFT (emotion focused therapy for couples) IFS (internal family systems) CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) including ACT and DBT Family Systems Dynamics Solution focused therapy License Registered Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTA #138180 California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology. Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro, LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy, Inc. Specialty areas: LGBTQIA+, Muslim background, Sex-Kink-Poly, Addiction, Assessment, Parenting Neurodiversity, Parenting, Teens, ND at Work, Neurodiverse Couples, ADHD, Autism, Buddist - Spiritual, Cassandra, Discernment, Internal Family Systems, Children, Trans Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.